NewzIntel.com

Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Security: Esgenoôpetitj First Nation — Missing 28-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Neguac RCMP is asking for the public’s help to locate a missing 28-year-old man from Esgenoôpetitj, N.B.

    Tomasz Isaac Dedam was last seen on October 9, 2024, at approximately 5 a.m., near Barlow Court in Esgenoôpetitj. He was reported missing to police the same day. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate him, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police and his family are concerned for his wellbeing.

    Tomasz Isaac Dedam is described as being approximately five feet seven inches (170 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 121 pounds (55 kilograms). He has brown eyes, brown hair, and some facial hair. He was last wearing a black shirt, black pants, and carrying a black backpack.

    Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Neguac RCMP at 506-776-3000.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Upper Keswick — RCMP investigate shooting incident

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Keswick RCMP is investigating a shooting incident in Upper Keswick, N.B.

    On October 9, 2024, at approximately 12:40 a.m., members of the Keswick RCMP responded to a report of a man that had been shot outside a residence on Route 104 in Upper Keswick.

    A man was later located suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to hospital with what were believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.

    Early in the investigation, it was determined that this was an isolated incident. The individuals involved were known to each other and a firearm was discharged following a disturbance. The incident did not meet the criteria for an Alert Ready.

    Police are currently looking for 20-year-old Austin Fox as part of the investigation.

    “The RCMP is committed to ensuring the safety of the communities we serve,” says Sgt. André Lauzon with the Keswick detachment. “If you have any information regarding this incident, please come forward.”

    Anyone who has video footage, witnessed the shooting, or has information that could help further the investigation is asked to call the Keswick RCMP at 506-357-4300. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at http://www.crimenb.ca.

    Police remain in the area as part of the ongoing investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former New Castle Police Lieutenant Found Guilty of Excessive Use of Force and Attempted Cover-Up Following Federal Jury Trial

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    INDIANAPOLIS—A federal jury has convicted Aaron Strong, 46, of New Castle, of three counts of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of witness tampering, following a five-day trial.

    According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, Aaron Strong was employed as a police officer with the New Castle Police Department. At the time the events occurred, Strong was a Lieutenant and served as Commander of the Henry County S.W.A.T. Team. Between 2017 and 2019, Strong engaged in a pattern of excessive use of force against a New Castle resident during the course of an arrest, and two detainees at the Henry County Jail.

    On July 12, 2017, Strong was part of a group of law enforcement and correctional officers that responded to reports that inmates were intoxicated at the Henry County Transition Center, a dormitory-style area of the facility designated for detainees who posed a lower security risk. When officers arrived and directed detainees to get on the ground, detainees proceeded to lay on the ground or get to their knees. Inmate “T.C” was laying on the ground when Lieutenant Strong encountered him. In response to a comment made by the inmate, Strong stomped on T.C.’s head multiple times, causing significant bodily harm.

    During the same incident, inmate “E.S.” initially got to his knees when officers ordered him to get on the ground, before eventually laying on the ground as directed. In response to the inmate’s delay in getting all the way to the ground, Lieutenant Strong shot him in the back with a “bean bag” shotgun round at point-blank range—approximately four feet away. The shot fractured the victim’s spine. All of the events at the Henry County Transition Center that day were captured on video. Other responding officers were so disturbed by Strong’s conduct that they immediately reported the incident to supervisors. As a result of Strong’s actions, the New Castle Police Department removed Strong from its S.W.A.T. Team.

    On August 18, 2019, New Castle Police engaged in a foot pursuit of “J.W.,” the subject of an investigation. After J.W. lowered himself to the ground, put his hands up and said, “I’m done,” officers began the process of putting him under arrest. As J.W. was lying face down and other officers were working to place him in handcuffs, Lieutenant Strong, without provocation, began to strike the arrestee on his arms, neck, and head with an expandable baton, resulting in significant bodily injury. In an attempt to cover up his illegal use of force against J.W., Strong knowingly made false statements to an Indiana State Police Trooper during the investigation of the 2019 incident.

    A second defendant, former Henry County Reserve Deputy Adam Guy, was acquitted by the jury of a single count of witness tampering related to the 2019 incident.

    “Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to serve our communities. Their jobs are difficult, dangerous, and noble,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Aaron Strong is not noble. He repeatedly and unlawfully abused his position of authority to inflict violence, injury, and pain—with no lawful justification. He then lied to cover it up. Our community deserves better. Together with our partners at the Department of Justice, the FBI, and Indiana State Police, our federal prosecutors will continue to seek accountability for police who illegally assault those they are sworn to protect.”

    “Aaron Strong is a repeat offender who defied his oath and abused his law enforcement authority to violently and unlawfully assault multiple individuals,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant put his fellow officers in danger and grievously injured people in his custody, whose wellbeing and rights he had a legal and moral duty to protect. Strong betrayed the law enforcement profession when he told lie after lie in an effort to cover up his crimes and derail an independent investigation. This unanimous jury verdict makes clear a core principle in our country – law enforcement officers are not above the law and will be held accountable for their crimes.”

    The FBI and Indiana State Police investigated this case, with the cooperation and assistance of the New Castle Police Department and Henry County Sheriff’s Office. Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt presided over the trial. Strong is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 7, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 50 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter A. Blackett and the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section Trial Attorney Alec Ward, who prosecuted this case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Baddeck Inlet — RCMP investigates fatal collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Victoria County District RCMP is investigating a fatal collision that occurred in Baddeck Inlet.

    On October 7, at approximately 6:10 p.m., Victoria County District RCMP, fire services, EHS, and the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works responded to a report of a collision near the 8000 block of Hwy. 105. Officers learned that two vehicles had collided on the road before coming to rest in the ditch. Both vehicles, a Western Star tractor trailer and a Hyundai Tucson, sustained significant damage.

    The driver and passenger in the Hyundai, a 45-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman both of British Columbia, were pronounced deceased on scene.

    The driver of the tractor trailer did not report physical injuries.

    An RCMP collision reconstructionist attended the scene and the investigation is ongoing.

    Hwy. 105 was closed for several hours but has since reopened.

    Any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police or anyone who may have dashcam or surveillance footage that shows this incident are asked to contact Victoria County District RCMP at 902-295-2350.

    Our thoughts are with the victims’ loved ones at this difficult time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: RM of Riverdale — Blue Hills RCMP respond to fatal collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 8, 2024, at approximately 5:15 pm, Blue Hills RCMP received a report of a vehicle and motorcycle collision on Highway 250, approximately 10 kilometres north of Highway 1, between Road 62 North and Road 64 North in the RM of Riverdale.

    When officers arrived, the driver of the motorcycle, a 48-year-old male from Brandon had been pronounced deceased.

    Initial investigation has determined that an SUV was travelling northbound on Highway 250 when it crossed the centre line at a curve in the road and struck the southbound motorcycle.

    The 37-year-old female driver of the SUV, from Souris was the only occupant of the SUV. She was transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries and has since been released.

    The female was wearing a seatbelt and alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the collision.

    A RCMP Forensic Collision Reconstructionist is assisting with the ongoing investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Department of Justice Releases Report on Officer-Involved Shooting of Ruben Ramos

    Source: US State of California

    Wednesday, October 9, 2024

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta, pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), today released a report on Ruben Ramos’ death from an officer-involved shooting in Burbank, California, on May 27, 2023. The incident involved officers from the Burbank Police Department (BPD). The report is part of the California Department of Justice’s (DOJ) ongoing efforts to provide transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices. The report provides a detailed analysis of the incident and outlines DOJ’s findings. After a thorough investigation, DOJ concluded that criminal charges were not appropriate in this case.

    “The loss of life in this situation is a tragedy that resonates deeply throughout California,” said Attorney General Bonta. “It serves as a stark reminder of the profound consequences that such events can have on individuals and families, as well as the ripple effects felt throughout the community. We acknowledge that this incident has caused significant challenges and hardships for all those impacted, including Mr. Ramos’ family, the law enforcement agencies involved, and the wider community. The California Department of Justice is firmly committed to working in partnership with all law enforcement agencies to ensure that we uphold a legal system that is not only fair and transparent but also accountable to every resident of California. We believe that it is our duty to foster trust and integrity within our justice system, and we will strive to ensure that the rights and dignity of all individuals are respected and protected.”

    On May 27, 2023, in Burbank, California, several Burbank police officers responded to a report of an individual with a gun in the parking lot of Home Depot located at 1200 South Flower Street. After Mr. Ramos was identified as the person reported to have a gun, law enforcement contacted him and attempted to take him into custody. Mr. Ramos pulled an unknown object, later identified as a black knife, out of his right pocket and pointed it at the officers while maintaining a shooting stance, at which point he was fatally shot.

    Under AB 1506, which requires DOJ to investigate all incidents of officer-involved shootings resulting in the death of an unarmed civilian in the state, DOJ conducted a thorough investigation into this incident and concluded that the evidence does not show, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the officers involved acted without the intent to defend themselves and others from what each of them reasonably believed to be imminent death or serious bodily injury. Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to support a criminal prosecution of the officers. As such, no further action will be taken in this case.

    As part of its investigation, DOJ has identified several policy recommendations that it believes will help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The first recommendation is regarding negligent discharge and round count. It is recommended that BPD amend its policy to require officers to check all weapons used during a critical incident to identify and preserve any potential evidence. This will ensure that information or evidence regarding the discharge of firearms and less lethal weapons is not missed in the event of a negligent or unknown discharge. 

    The second set of recommendations is regarding BPD’s crisis intervention response. It is recommended that BPD continue its efforts to add additional staff to its Mental Health Evaluation Team and that BPD consider extending the hours of the Mental Health Evaluation Team’s availability. It is also recommended that BPD consider implementing a POST certified course to further train personnel on recognizing the most common mental illnesses encountered by law enforcement, and the use of effective de-escalation techniques to resolve an incident involving a person suffering from a mental health crisis.

    A copy of the report can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lt. Governor Austin Davis Kicks Off Listening Tour to Inform the Work of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 08, 2024 – Harrisburg, PA

    Lt. Governor Austin Davis Kicks Off Listening Tour to Inform the Work of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention

    Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis and the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) joined the Departments of Health, Human Services, Community and Economic Development, State Police, Military and Veterans Affairs, Office of the Victim Advocate and advocacy organizations CeaseFirePA, Everytown for Gun Safety, GIFFORDS, Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions, and others to kick off the first in a series of listening sessions that will inform the work of PCCD’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention.

    “I believe every Pennsylvanian deserves to be safe and feel safe in their communities – and my Administration took real action to re-establish Pennsylvania’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention and put real resources behind this effort,” said Governor Shapiro. “Under Lieutenant Governor Davis’ leadership at PCCD, we are listening to Pennsylvanians about their experiences with gun violence and bringing together public safety and public health experts, gun violence survivors and advocates, and leaders from state and local agencies to address and prevent violence across the Commonwealth. We’re going to continue to work together to ensure that every Pennsylvanian has the real freedom that comes when you can walk down the street in your community without worrying about gun violence.”

    List of Speakers:
    Lt. Governor Austin Davis
    PA Commission on Crime & Delinquency Executive Director Mike Pennington
    PA Commission on Crime & Delinquency Interim Director Samantha Koch
    Department of Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen
    Department of Human Services Executive Deputy Secretary Andrew Barnes
    Department of Education Secretary Dr. Khalid Mumin
    Office of Victim Advocate Suzanne Estrella
    Department of Human Services Deputy Secretary Andrew Barnes
    Department of Community & Economic Development Deputy Secretary Rick Vilello

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Beaver Bank — RCMP charges man following attempted arson in Beaver Bank

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has charged a man with multiple offences following an arson attempt in Beaver Bank.

    On October 3, at approximately 12:15 p.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a report of attempted arson on Sherri Ln. RCMP officers learned that a man had thrown a light incendiary device in proximity of a home. The fire did not damage the residence.

    With the help of the public, investigators identified Shawn Michael Deschenes, 51, of Beaver Bank, as the person responsible for the incident. Deschenes and the occupants of the home are known to each other.

    On October 7, at the request of investigators, Deschenes attended the Lower Sackville RCMP detachment where he was safely arrested. Later that day, RCMP officers executed a search warrant at his residence, seized a cell phone and observed evidence of flammable material.

    Deschenes has been charged with:

    • Arson
    • Possession of Incendiary Material
    • Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose

    He appeared in Dartmouth Provincial Court and was remanded into custody. He will return in court today.

    The investigation remains ongoing.

    File # 24-135801

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moncton  — 61-year-old man sentenced in connection with child pornography investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 61-year-old man from Moncton, N.B., has been sentenced in connection with an investigation into child pornography.

    The investigation, led by the New Brunswick RCMP’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit, began in April 2022, following information received from the RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Crime Centre.

    On November 8, 2022, members of the RCMP ICE Unit, the Codiac Regional RCMP and the RCMP’s Digital Forensic Services, executed a search warrant at a residence on Atlantic Avenue in Moncton. A man was arrested at the scene, and police seized several electronic devices. He was later released on conditions, pending a future court appearance.

    On February 2, 2023, 61-year-old George Humphrey Lawrence appeared in Moncton Provincial Court and was charged with possession of child pornography and transmitting child pornography.

    On August 8, 2024, George Humphrey Lawrence, appeared in Moncton Provincial Court and plead guilty to all charges.

    On October 3, 2024, George Humphrey Lawrence was sentenced to three years in prison. He was also ordered to register with the National Sex Offender Registry for 20 years and to provide a DNA sample.

    Following his release from prison, he will have to abide by conditions set out by the court, including not communicating with anyone under the age of 16, and to not attend any place that someone under the age of 16 is known to be for a period of 20 years.

    The New Brunswick RCMP’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit includes members from the Saint John Police Force and the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force.

    If you are a victim, or have any information related to similar crimes, please contact your local police. If you have information that may assist an investigation and would like to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at http://www.crimenb.ca.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Trio Responsible for Eight Armed Robberies of Indianapolis-Area Cell Phone Stores Sentenced to Combined 65 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    INDIANAPOLIS- Robdarius Williams, 21, D’Maurah Bryant, 21, and Quintez Tucker, 20, all of Indianapolis, have all been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a series of eight armed robberies of Indianapolis cell phone retailers.

    Defendant Charges Sentence
    Quintez Tucker, 20

    Eight counts of robbery

    Four counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence

    30 years in prison
    3 years of supervised release

    $64,894 in restitution
    D’Maurah Bryant, 21

    Four counts of robbery

    Three counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence

    25 years in prison
    3 years of supervised release

    $24,485 in restitution
    Robdarius Williams, 21

    One count of robbery

    Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence

    		 9.5 years in prison
    3 years of supervised release

    In April of 2024, Tucker and Bryant each plead guilty. In June of 2024, a federal jury found Williams guilty following a one-and-a-half-day trial.

    According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, from November 8 through December 3, 2021, Tucker and Bryant worked together to rob eight cell phone retailers around Indianapolis. During each robbery, the men brandished firearms and pointed them at employees, demanded cash, cell phones, and accessories from the store and customers. Williams joined in the eighth and final armed robbery as the getaway driver, stole a license plate for the getaway car and took Tucker to pick up an AR-style rifle used in the robbery.

    In total, the trio robbed eight businesses in twenty-five days:

    Date Location Defendants
    November 8, 2021 Verizon, Olio Rd., Fishers. Tucker & Bryant
    November 18, 2021 T-Mobile, Southport Rd. Tucker & Bryant
    November 23, 2021 Verizon, Kessler Blvd. Tucker & Bryant
    November 26, 2021 T-Mobile, E. 86th St. Tucker & Bryant
    November 29, 2021 T-Mobile, Fox Rd. Tucker & Bryant
    December 1, 2021 T-Mobile, E. Stop 11 Rd. Tucker & Bryant
    December 1, 2021 T-Mobile, W. 38th St. Tucker & Bryant
    December 3, 2021 AT&T, S. Emerson Ave. Tucker & Williams

    “No one should have a gun pointed in their face by heartless criminals simply because they went shopping, or went to work,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These armed criminals terrorized their victims with utter disregard for the consequences of their actions—going so far as to point an AR-style firearm at a toddler as their parent shielded the child with their body. These horrific crimes will not be tolerated in our community. The Department of Justice has no higher priority than keeping the public safe from armed, violent crimes. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the FBI, the Fishers Police Department, IMPD, and our federal prosecutors, our communities will be protected from these criminals for many years to come.”

    “The lengthy sentences handed out should serve as a deterrent to remind potential offenders that the FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting those who live in the communities we serve,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The defendants didn’t just steal items; they instilled a sense of fear in and disrupted the lives of their victims.

    “The sentencing of these three violent felons to a combined 65 years in prison sends a strong message that our community will not tolerate such criminal behavior,” said Ed Gebhart, Fishers Police Chief, “I commend the hard work of our officers, our law enforcement partners and the justice system for ensuring that these dangerous individuals will be off the streets for a significant amount of time.”

    The FBI investigated this case. The Fishers Police Department, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, and the Marion County Prosecutors Office also provided valuable assistance. The sentences were imposed by U.S District Court Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson.

    U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy C. Fugate and Peter A. Blackett, who prosecuted this case.

    This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Who Bound and Raped Au Pair, Victimized Other Women and Girls, Sentenced to Life in Prison

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

              GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Arisknight Winfree, 32, of East Lansing, was sentenced to life in federal prison for sexually exploiting four women, including two minors, in 2022. Winfree was convicted on multiple charges that included Kidnapping (Count 1), Coercion and Enticement (Count 2), Attempted Coercion and Enticement (Count 3), and Production of Child Pornography (Counts 4 and 5).

              “Arisknight Winfree is a sexual predator whose horrendous acts caused immeasurable harm to the women and girls upon whom he preyed,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “This life sentence is necessary to protect the community and bring a measure of justice to the survivors.”

              Winfree targeted his victims in multiple ways, including through use of the messaging service on various social media apps and through an online service that connects individuals, often young women, with host families in need of childcare and light housework. The Court convicted Winfree of five crimes involving four victims.

              First, Winfree was convicted of Kidnapping (Count 1) and Coercion and Enticement (Count 2) for the crimes he committed against S.D. The victim was a young woman living in Italy who Winfree contacted on September 5, 2022 through AuPair.com, a website service that connects young women with potential host families. Winfree falsely represented that his family was in search of an au pair to care for his niece. On October 12, 2022, S.D. flew from Italy to Detroit, Michigan, and then took a bus to Winfree’s residence in East Lansing, Michigan. The day after she arrived, Winfree handcuffed his victim’s hands behind her back, placed a gag ball in her mouth, and raped her. Winfree considered killing his victim and hiding her body to avoid prosecution.

              Second, Winfree was convicted of Attempted Coercion and Enticement (Count 3) for the crimes he committed against A.S. Winfree connected with A.S. through AuPair.com in July 2022, falsely representing he needed someone to watch his 7-year-old niece every other week. Winfree paid for A.S. to fly to Michigan on September 14, 2022. When A.S. got to Winfree’s residence, she noticed all the windows were covered with paper and cardboard. She also noticed there were cameras around the house. A.S. saw no signs of children. She saw several knives and guns around the house. On September 16, 2022, A.S.’s family called the East Lansing Police Department and requested a welfare check for A.S. With the assistance of the police, the victim left the residence with her belongings and returned to Kansas.

              Third, Winfree was convicted of Production of Child Pornography (Count 4) for the crimes he committed against Minor Victim 1 (MV1). Winfree connected with MV1 on Instagram in November 2022, when the victim was 17 years old. From November 29-30, MV1 created nude images at Winfree’s request and sent them to him through the social media app’s messaging feature. On November 30, 2022, Winfree picked MV1 up from her high school, drove her to his home, and engaged in sexual acts with her.

              Fourth, Winfree was convicted of another count of Production of Child Pornography (Count 5) for the crimes he committed against Minor Victim 2 (MV2). Winfree connected with MV2 in September or October of 2022 on SnapChat, when the victim was 16 years old. He instructed MV2 to engage in sexual acts and send images and videos to him through SnapChat and later through WhatsApp.

              Further details are provided in the attached Complaint and the United States’ Statement of Facts Establishing Defendant’s Guilt.

              “The sentencing of Arisknight Winfree marks a significant step towards healing for all those who suffered from his callous and heinous criminal acts,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Individuals who engage in sexual exploitation involving minors will be investigated and arrested by the FBI and our law enforcement partners in Michigan. The collective investigative efforts by members from FBI Michigan, the East Lansing Police Department, and the prosecutorial efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office of Western Michigan prevented another crime from being committed by Mr. Winfree.”

              “The East Lansing Police Department would like to thank the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan for their commitment to this case,” said ELPD Police Chief Chad Pride. “Arisknight Winfree’s conviction on multiple charges shows our collaborative partnerships were essential in bringing justice to the survivors of these awful acts and holding Arisknight accountable for his actions.”

              This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor’s offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following website: http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.

              Assistant United States Attorney Davin Reust prosecuted this case. The East Lansing Police Department, Michigan State University Police and Public Safety, and the FBI investigated it.

              The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan issued the previous press releases in this case and a related case:

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Lake Woman Sentenced to Prison for Child Neglect Following the Death of a Child on the Red Lake Reservation

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    MINNEAPOLIS – A Red Lake woman has been sentenced to 15 months in prison following the death of a child in her care, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.

    According to evidence presented at trial, Sharon Rosebear, 64, intentionally deprived a child, Minor A, of necessary food and health care over the course of 2022. The evidence at trial established that Minor A died in 2022 from the combined effects of starvation and infection. Rosebear’s codefendant, Julius Fineday, Sr., pleaded guilty to one count of felony child neglect causing the death of a child and was sentenced to five years in prison earlier this year.

    The evidence at trial established that Rosebear acted as one of Minor A’s caretakers in 2022. In accordance with Minnesota law, the jury was instructed that Rosebear’s lack of formal legal custody of Minor A did not alter her responsibility to the child. The evidence at trial established that Rosebear was reasonably able to provide for Minor A’s nutrition and healthcare—including evidence establishing that healthcare and transportation to healthcare is free within the Red Lake Nation, and that all of the adults and children involved in the case received nutritional and cash assistance adequate to meet their basic needs—and that Rosebear nonetheless intentionally deprived Minor A of those basic needs by withholding food, and by looking the other way while Minor A’s health deteriorated. The evidence at trial included evidence that Minor A died at the same weight she had been nearly three years earlier, and that while Rosebear was aware of Minor A’s severe lice infestation, Rosebear responded by keeping Minor A isolated rather than seeking medical attention for Minor A.  

    Medical testimony at trial established that the type of infection Minor A had when she died could have entered Minor A’s body through scratches in her scalp related to her unaddressed lice. The medical testimony also established that Minor A’s prolonged starvation may have been an independently sufficient cause of death, or may have severely compromised Minor A’s immune system’s ability to fight infection. 

    On April 29, 2024, Rosebear was found guilty of felony child neglect following a six-day trial in U.S. District Court. She was sentenced today by Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz. 

    In handing down the sentence, Chief Judge Schiltz commented, “One of the most tragic things about Minor A’s death is that it was so easily preventable … day after day, week after week, month after month, Ms. Rosebear watched as Minor A slowly starved to death.”
    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Red Lake Tribal Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsey E. Middlecamp and Rachel L. Kraker tried the case. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Blair Taylor Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for the Murder of Two People

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On October 3, 2024, BLAIR TAYLOR (“TAYLOR”), a New Orleans resident, was sentenced after being found guilty by a federal jury of two-counts of  causing a death through the use of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(j)(1), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

    According to the trial evidence, TAYLOR killed two individuals on August 10, 2014, in what was called the “Burgundy Massacre.”  One of the homicide victims killed by TAYLOR was a sixteen-year-old girl.  Five other people were shot and seriously injured, including a 2-year-old child and a 4-year-old child.  TAYLOR and two other individuals went to Burgundy Street in New Orleans to retaliate against a narcotics dealer who had stolen drugs from the mother of one of TAYLOR’s co-conspirators.  When they arrived, TAYLOR, who possessed a rifle, opened fire on the crowd, despite several young children being outside.  One of his accomplices approached the intended target and shot and killed him.

    On February 2, 2017,  TAYLOR and his accomplice were found guilty of two counts of second-degree murder and five counts of attempted second-degree murder after the jury returned an 11-1 verdict of guilty on all counts.  However, in 2021 they were granted new trials after the United States Supreme Court found ruled non-unanimous jury verdicts unconstitutional.  In October of 2022 the State of Louisiana retried TAYLOR and he was found not guilty.  He was subsequently released from jail in March 2023.

    Following that not guilty verdict, a federal grand jury conducted an investigation and indicted TAYLOR, for the two murders.

    After a three (3) day trial, the jury found TAYLOR guilty of causing the death of both victims through the use of a firearm.  As to each count of murder, TAYLOR was sentenced to life imprisonment. 

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich, Unit Chief Elizabeth Privitera and Special Assistant United States Attorney James Ollinger, all from the Violent Crime Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Introduces Legislation That Would Make it Harder to Purchase Machetes and Other Long-Blade Weapons

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 9, 2024

    Manitoba Government Introduces Legislation That Would Make it Harder to Purchase Machetes and Other Long-Blade Weapons

    – – –
    Proposed Legislation Aims to Improve Public Safety by Regulating Retail Sale of Machetes, Knives, Swords: Wiebe

    The Manitoba government is introducing legislation that would regulate the retail sale of long-bladed weapons, including machetes, knives and swords, Justice Minister Matt Wiebe announced today. 

    “Our government is committed to getting tough on crime and this new legislation would help keep our communities safer by restricting access to weapons such as machetes, knives and swords,” said Wiebe. “We’ve heard loud and clear: the purchase of these weapons needs to be restricted. We’re pleased to be moving forward to take real action to make our streets safer.” 

    Bill 39, the long-bladed weapon control act, aims to limit the supply of long-bladed weapons to individuals with dangerous intentions by:

    • requiring retailers to securely store long-bladed weapons in a way that prevents the public from accessing them without assistance;
    • prohibiting the retail sale of long-bladed weapons to minors under 18;
    • requiring purchasers to provide photo identification; and
    • requiring retailers to retain records, including purchaser information and transaction details, for a minimum of two years.

    “Manitoba has seen significant success in deterring crime through regulating the retail sale of products targeted for criminal purposes,” said Wiebe. “Access controls, age restrictions and identification and record-keeping requirements have proven effective at combatting crime. Our government is expanding this approach to address long-bladed weapon violence in the province.” 

    The bill defines long-bladed weapons as having a metal blade at least 30 centimetres in length. The minister noted the definition could be expanded through regulation to include certain features or characteristics, in response to emerging community safety needs. 

    “Ensuring the safety and well-being of our AMC member nations is paramount. I want to recognize and applaud the efforts of the minister of justice to address the concerns put forth by First Nations leadership with this long blade weapons control act,” said Acting Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC). “The AMC looks forward to continue being a part of this conversation and to work with Manitoba to draft a regulatory framework that prioritizes the protection of First Nation citizens in Manitoba.”

    The legislation would also apply to online retailers shipping long-bladed weapons to Manitoba addresses, added Wiebe.

    “The Manitoba Association of Chiefs of Police strongly supports provincial legislation that restricts the purchase of long-bladed machetes or knives by those who are acquiring with the intent to use for an unlawful or violent purpose,” said Scot Halley, president, Manitoba Association of Chiefs of Police. “Edged weapon and machete attacks have dramatically increased in the last number of years, the consequences of which can cause significant life-altering injuries or sometimes be fatal. This legislation is another tool to assist law enforcement in keeping these weapons out of the hands of the gang and criminal elements.” 

    If passed through the legislature, the bill would take effect on proclamation and be accompanied by regulations that would include additional long-bladed weapon features and characteristics, as well as exemptions where necessary, noted Wiebe. The minister added the province plans to consult retail businesses, law enforcement and Indigenous leadership to develop the regulations in the coming months. 

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The dangers of voice cloning and how to combat it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leo S.F. Lin, Senior Lecturer in Policing Studies, Charles Sturt University

    David Herraez Calzada/Shutterstock

    The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought both benefits and risk.

    One concerning trend is the misuse of voice cloning. In seconds, scammers can clone a voice and trick people into thinking a friend or a family member urgently needs money.

    News outlets, including CNN, warn these types of scams have the potential to impact millions of people.

    As technology makes it easier for criminals to invade our personal spaces, staying cautious about its use is more important than ever.

    What is voice cloning?

    The rise of AI has created possibilities for image, text, voice generation and machine learning.

    While AI offers many benefits, it also provides fraudsters new methods to exploit individuals for money.

    You may have heard of “deepfakes,” where AI is used to create fake images, videos and even audio, often involving celebrities or politicians.

    Voice cloning, a type of deepfake technology, creates a digital replica of a person’s voice by capturing their speech patterns, accent and breathing from brief audio samples.

    Once the speech pattern is captured, an AI voice generator can convert text input into highly realistic speech resembling the targeted person’s voice.

    With advancing technology, voice cloning can be accomplished with just a three-second audio sample.

    While a simple phrase like “hello, is anyone there?” can lead to a voice cloning scam, a longer conversation helps scammers capture more vocal details. It is therefore best to keep calls brief until you are sure of the caller’s identity.

    Voice cloning has valuable applications in entertainment and health care – enabling remote voice work for artists (even posthumously) and assisting people with speech disabilities.

    However, it raises serious privacy and security concerns, underscoring the need for safeguards.

    How it’s being exploited by criminals

    Cybercriminals exploit voice cloning technology to impersonate celebrities, authorities or ordinary people for fraud.

    They create urgency, gain the victim’s trust and request money via gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.

    The process begins by collecting audio samples from sources like YouTube and TikTok.

    Next, the technology analyses the audio to generate new recordings.

    Once the voice is cloned, it can be used in deceptive communications, often accompanied by spoofing Caller ID to appear trustworthy.

    Many voice cloning scam cases have made headlines.

    For example, criminals cloned the voice of a company director in the United Arab Emirates to orchestrate a $A51 million heist.

    A businessman in Mumbai fell victim to a voice cloning scam involving a fake call from the Indian Embassy in Dubai.

    In Australia recently, scammers employed a voice clone of Queensland Premier Steven Miles to attempt to trick people to invest in Bitcoin.

    Teenagers and children are also targeted. In a kidnapping scam in the United States, a teenager’s voice was cloned and her parents manipulated into complying with demands.

    It only takes a few seconds of audio for AI to clone someone’s voice.

    How widespread is it?

    Recent research shows 28% of adults in the United Kingdom faced voice cloning scams last year, with 46% unaware of the existence of this type of scam.

    It highlights a significant knowledge gap, leaving millions at risk of fraud.

    In 2022, almost 240,000 Australians reported being victims of voice cloning scams, leading to a financial loss of $A568 million.

    How people and organisations can safeguard against it

    The risks posed by voice cloning require a multidisciplinary response.

    People and organisations can implement several measures to safeguard against the misuse of voice cloning technology.

    First, public awareness campaigns and education can help protect people and organisations and mitigate these types of fraud.

    Public-private collaboration can provide clear information and consent options for voice cloning.

    Second, people and organisations should look to use biometric security with liveness detection, which is new technology that can recognise and verify a live voice as opposed to a fake. And organisations using voice recognition should consider adopting multi-factor authentication.

    Third, enhancing investigative capability against voice cloning is another crucial measure for law enforcement.

    Finally, accurate and updated regulations for countries are needed for managing associated risks.

    Australian law enforcement recognises the potential benefits of AI.

    Yet, concerns about the “dark side” of this technology have prompted calls for research into the criminal use of “artificial intelligence for victim targeting.”

    There are also calls for possible intervention strategies that law enforcement could use to combat this problem.

    Such efforts should connect with the overall National Plan to Combat Cybercrime, which focuses on proactive, reactive and restorative strategies.

    That national plan stipulates a duty of care for service providers, reflected in the Australian government’s new legislation to safeguard the public and small businesses.

    The legislation aims for new obligations to prevent, detect, report and disrupt scams.

    This will apply to regulated organisations such as telcos, banks and digital platform providers. The goal is to protect customers by preventing, detecting, reporting, and disrupting cyber scams involving deception.

    Reducing the risk

    As cybercrime costs the Australian economy an estimated A$42 billion, public awareness and strong safeguards are essential.

    Countries like Australia are recognising the growing risk. The effectiveness of measures against voice cloning and other frauds depends on their adaptability, cost, feasibility and regulatory compliance.

    All stakeholders — government, citizens, and law enforcement — must stay vigilant and raise public awareness to reduce the risk of victimisation.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The dangers of voice cloning and how to combat it – https://theconversation.com/the-dangers-of-voice-cloning-and-how-to-combat-it-239926

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Columbia Man Arrested on Criminal Solicitation of a Minor and Related ChargesRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina


  • MIL-OSI USA: Eight Charged in $68M Social Adult Day Care and Home Health Care Scheme

    Source: US State of Vermont

    An indictment was unsealed today in Brooklyn, New York, charging eight defendants for their alleged roles in a scheme to defraud Medicaid of approximately $68 million through the operation of two social adult day cares and a home health care financial intermediary that were paying kickbacks and bribes for services that were not provided.

    According to court documents, Zakia Khan, 53, of Brooklyn, and Ahsan Ijaz, 27, of Brooklyn, owned two social adult day cares, Happy Family Social Adult Day Care Center Inc. (Happy Family) and Family Social Adult Day Care Center Inc. (Family Social), and a financial intermediary, Responsible Care Staffing Inc. (Responsible Care), for the New York Medicaid Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Services Program (CDPAP), which permits family members of Medicaid recipients to receive payment for assisting Medicaid recipients with activities of daily living. Beginning in approximately October 2017, in exchange for kickbacks and bribes, marketers Elaine Antao, 45, also known as Aleena, of Brooklyn, Omneah Hamdi, 61, of Brooklyn, and Manal Wasef, 44, of Brooklyn, allegedly referred Medicaid recipients to Happy Family, Family Social, and/or Responsible Care. The marketers in turn allegedly paid kickbacks and bribes to Medicaid recipients for social adult day care and CDPAP services that Happy Family, Family Social, and Responsible Care billed to Medicaid but were not provided or were induced by kickbacks and bribes. Ansir Abassi, 38, also known as Zaib Abassi and Ansir Zaib, of Brooklyn, and Amran Hashmi, 53, of Brooklyn, allegedly managed Happy Family and Family Social and the marketers. To carry out the kickback scheme, Khan, Antao, Ijaz, Abassi, and Hamdi allegedly used business entities to launder the fraud proceeds and generate the cash used to pay kickbacks and bribes. Seema Memon, 30, of Brooklyn, an employee of Happy Family who was previously charged by complaint on July 1, was also indicted.

    “As alleged in the indictment, these defendants orchestrated a years-long scheme to defraud Medicaid of tens of millions of dollars for social adult day care and home care services for seniors that they did not provide,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendants allegedly paid cash bribes and kickbacks to recruiters and Medicaid recipients as part of a scheme to enrich themselves at the expense of vital programs for senior citizens. Today’s charges make clear that the Criminal Division will not tolerate schemes that brazenly steal from federal health care programs.”

    “Social adult day care and home health services are meant to help seniors, but as alleged, the defendants allegedly turned their businesses into a brazen cash grab of millions of dollars from the Medicaid program,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. “My office is committed to investigating and prosecuting those who plunder taxpayer-funded, federal health care programs dollars while purporting to offer health care services.” 

    “HHS-OIG is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations that bribes and kickbacks are paid with Medicaid monies,” said Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Individuals and entities that participate in the federal health care system are required to obey the laws meant to preserve the integrity of program funds and the provision of appropriate, quality services to patients.”

    “The crimes outlined in this indictment took advantage of a network that offers essential health care and other services to those in need,” said Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon of the New York City Police Department (NYPD). “Let it be clear: anyone who attempts to profit by defrauding the system will face consequences, as these schemes drain already limited resources and deprive beneficiaries of crucial funds. I commend our NYPD investigators and federal law enforcement partners for their successful and continued collaboration.”

    “As alleged, the defendants saw nothing beyond the dollar signs associated with their crimes, and in turn defrauded the U.S. government of $68 million in welfare funds meant for one of our country’s most vulnerable populations,” said Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York. “Today’s announcement underscores the HSI New York El Dorado Task Force’s unrelenting focus on dismantling and disrupting financial fraud schemes that exploit the American public and hurt our economy.”

    Khan is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, three counts of health care fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, paying health care kickbacks, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering, 10 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, and paying health care kickbacks, and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

    Abassi, Antao, Hamdi, and Ijaz are charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering, 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit health care fraud, and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

    Hashmi is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, three counts of health care fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, and paying health care kickbacks. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, and paying health care kickbacks, and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

    Memon is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, and paying health care kickbacks. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and paying health care kickbacks and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

    Wasef is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit health care fraud and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

    HHS-OIG, NYPD, and HSI are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Patrick J. Campbell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanisha R. Payne for the Eastern District of New York is assisting with forfeiture matters.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Occupants assaulted after break-in at Gulfview Heights

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating an incident at Gulfview Heights where two people were stabbed.

    About 3.45am on Wednesday 9 October, police were called to a home on Nelson Road after reports that a group of armed males forced entry into the property and stabbed two occupants.

    The group left the scene in a vehicle which was last seen turning on to Yulinda Terrace.

    A 53-year-old woman and a 17-year-old boy were both taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. A third person was also taken to hospital with minor injuries after being assaulted.

    It is early in the investigation however police do not believe this to be a random incident.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au/ or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Protesters in Waikato on Te Rapa Road

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police in Waikato have responded to protesters at a building on Te Rapa Road, Horotiu Hamilton at about 7am this morning.

    The protesters unfurled a banner and abseiled down the side of the building.

    Police are currently with protesters on the ground now and there are no issues.

    Police recognises the right to peaceful protest.

    Unlawful behaviour will result in enforcement action, either at the time or following the event if safety issues prevent immediate action.

    There have been no arrests so far and there are no delays for traffic.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update – homicide investigation, Mt Pleasant

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Detective Inspector Scott Anderson:

    Police continue to investigate the murder of an elderly woman who was found deceased in her Mt Pleasant home on Monday evening.

    A scene examination is continuing at the property and several other enquiries are underway.

    The investigation is in its early stages however Police can confirm that person charged was known to the victim.

    A man has been charged with her murder and appeared in court yesterday where he was remanded in custody until his next appearance later this month.

    Police are still keen to hear from anyone who heard or saw anything suspicious between 10am on Friday 4 October to 4pm on Sunday 6 October in the Mt Pleasant Road or Bellview Terrace area.

    We want to reassure our community that this was an isolated incident and we are not seeking anyone else in relation to this matter.

    Police are working closely with Victim Support to support the victim’s family at this very distressing and difficult time.

    We would ask anyone with information that may assist the investigation team to please update us online now  or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241007/1228.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Riverside man charged with possessing child abuse material

    Source: Tasmania Police

    A 44 year old Riverside man has been arrested for allegedly possessing child exploitation material.

    Following an investigation, search warrants were executed including at a private residence at Riverside today, by members of the Tasmania Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team (JACET).

    The Tasmania JACET is comprised of members of the High-Risk Child Exploitation Unit (Tasmania Police) and the Australian Federal Police.

    During the search, devices containing child abuse material were located.

    A 44-year-old man was arrested and charged with possess or control child abuse material obtained or accessed using a carriage service, contrary to section 474.22A of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth).

    He has been detained to appear in an afterhours session of the Launceston Magistrates Court.

    Online child abuse is a serious crime. Tasmania Police, with the support of its partners, is committed to stopping these crimes and keeping our children safe. If you have seen inappropriate behaviour online that you suspect is child abuse, report it:

    •              If the child is in immediate danger, call 000.
    •              Call 131 444
    •              Report online to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) https://www.accce.gov.au/report

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed following crash, Marine Parade

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are currently attending a crash on Marine Parade, Napier, where a vehicle has struck a barrier. 

    While there are no injuries, there is traffic in the area and there are currently significant delays.

    The road is closed while Police work to clear the scene, with diversions in place.

    Please avoid the area if possible. 

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — RCMP report the remains of a missing man have been located

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 16, 2024, a pickup truck pulling a trailer loaded with other vehicles went off the road into the Yukon River near the Lewes River Bridge. One male was able to exit the vehicle while the other male remained missing after the collision.

    On October 7, 2024, the missing male was located deceased in the Yukon River. The Yukon Coroner’s office is investigating and an autopsy has been ordered.

    Whitehorse RCMP would like to thank Yukon Search and Rescue and Whitehorse Fire Department for their support during the sustained search efforts.

    RCMP continue to conduct their investigation of the motor vehicle collision. For respect of the families involved and the integrity of the investigation, no further details will be released at this time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Iraq

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    • Reviewed: 9 October 2024, 10:56 NZDT
    • Still current at: 9 October 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    Do not travel to Iraq including the Kurdistan region due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation, the ongoing threat of terrorism, violent extremism and organised crime (level 4 of 4).

    New Zealanders currently in Iraq despite our advice who have concerns for their safety are strongly advised to depart as soon as possible.

    Iraq

    As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Iraq, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens requiring consular assistance is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Iraq should consider.

    Security Situation
    The security situation in Iraq remains highly volatile and could deteriorate further, with little or no warning. The terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant remains active in parts of the country, as do other violent extremist groups engaged in sectarian, ethnic and tribal violence and organised crime. Political instability, crime and corruption, and civil unrest are also common in Iraq.

    Terrorism
    There is a continuing threat of violent attacks across Iraq from terrorist groups. Suicide bomb attacks, roadside bombs, car bombs, rocket attacks, drone attacks and small arms attacks occur frequently. Thousands of people have been killed and injured in these attacks throughout Iraq.

    Attacks can occur without warning at anytime, anywhere in Iraq. Terrorists, violent extremists and both pro and anti-government militias continue to conduct frequent and lethal attacks on a wide range of targets in Iraq.

    Targets include Iraqi Security Forces, government offices, large public gatherings, places of worship, airports, sites frequented by foreigners and residential areas to maximise casualties. While attacks can happen at any time, there is a heightened threat during religious and public holidays. There is also a heightened threat of attacks against Western interests.

    While the security situation in the Kurdistan region is slightly different to the rest of Iraq, there remains a risk of attacks by terrorist groups. Terrorist groups remain active close to the Kurdish region and the security situation in the region could deteriorate quickly.

    Kidnapping/Crime
    Violent crime, kidnapping and corruption are widespread throughout Iraq. Organised criminal groups, militia and tribal groups pose a significant threat. Although violent crime does occur during the day, security conditions get much worse after dark.

    Kidnapping for ransom and hostage taking by extremists and militant groups for ideological reasons, political gain or ransom is a significant threat throughout Iraq. Over the past decade a large number of foreign nationals have been kidnapped in Iraq, including aid workers, security contractors, journalists and soldiers.  Many hostages have been killed or remain missing.

    Women and girls in particular may be subject to harassment or mistreatment. Some sectors of Iraqi society and institutions have been known to overlook allegations of domestic violence against women when it is committed by close family members.

    Civil Unrest
    Political rallies and protests happen frequently in Baghdad and Basra and to a lesser extent Erbil. They can turn violent quickly and have led to injury and death in the past. Political rallies and protests also present viable targets for terrorists.  Police may use tear gas, water cannons and live ammunition to disperse crowds. 

    New Zealanders in Iraq are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews or vehicle bans. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings. If unexpectedly in the vicinity of a protest or demonstration, exercise caution and leave the area quickly, find a safe location, remain indoors and follow any local advice.

    Security Forces
    Iraqi Security Forces and international coalition forces are engaged in an ongoing terrorist counter insurgency across central and northern Iraq. They also have a strong presence across the rest of Iraq and conduct targeted airstrikes against militants.

    Security restrictions like curfews and vehicle bans can be imposed at short notice.

    Security checkpoints are common place and often ad hoc, however false checkpoints have also been used to launch attacks, kidnapping, robbery and murder.

    Iraq has a large number of diverse security forces. They do not all enjoy cooperative relationships with one and other.

    Turkish and Iranian security forces have also been known to conduct military incursions targeting terrorist or militia groups across Iraq’s northern borders.

    Local travel
    Travel across Iraq can be extremely dangerous and there continue to be fatal attacks involving roadside bombs and small arms fire.

    There is also an ongoing threat from armed carjacking and robbery. Attacks happen during the day, but travelling at night is more dangerous.

    Domestic and international border crossings and Iraqi airports may close with little or no notice. Avoid travel to border areas as clashes, air strikes and other violent incidents are common. Sensitive border areas, especially with Syria and Turkey, are military targets.

    Piracy
    Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, particularly in the northern Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For more information, view the International Maritime Bureaus’ piracy report. 

    Mosul Dam
    The Government of Iraq has taken and continues to take measures to improve the structural integrity of the Mosul Dam. A dam failure could cause significant flooding and disruptions to essential services from Mosul to Baghdad, along the Tigris River as well as areas adjoining the dam. A failure of the Mosul Dam cannot be predicted. Monitor local media reports and prepare contingency plans. 

    General Travel Advice
    Although homosexuality is not explicitly illegal under Iraqi law, people of the same sex who engage in consensual sexual acts may be prosecuted under other provisions of law, such as public indecency, and local attitudes towards LGBTQI+ people may be hostile. Violence, harassment and discrimination against LGBTQI+ people does occur, you are advised to exercise discretion.

    New Zealanders who decide to travel to Iraq are strongly encouraged to: 

    • Consult a reputable security company (with experience in Iraq) for advice on security arrangements. Security arrangements should be reviewed on a regular basis. Such measures may mitigate the risks to your safety but cannot eliminate them entirely.
    • Ensure that appropriate personal security protection measures are in place at all times including a robust contingency plan. The New Zealand government will not be arranging an evacuation for New Zealand citizens, should commercial options for departure cease.
    • Avoid areas of military activity at all times including border areas, as these areas are dangerous, often the target of military operations and not always clearly defined.
    • Have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel in Iraq – exclusions may well apply.
    • Be highly security conscious at all times, particularly in public places when travelling by road and close to government offices.
    • New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Iraq to avoid offending local sensitivities. 
    • Follow restrictions imposed by the local authorities and seek local advice on any changes to curfews. Exercise particular caution at checkpoints, a uniform is not a guarantee that the wearer is acting in an official capacity.
    • Monitor local developments closely through media and other information sources on possible new safety and security risks. Follow instructions from local authorities. Remain vigilant and alert to your surroundings.

    New Zealanders who decide to live or travel in Iraq against our advice are strongly advised to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Travel tips

    The New Zealand Embassy Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is accredited to Iraq

    Street Address Level 25, Suite 2503, International Tower, Capital Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE Postal Address PO Box 62292, Abu Dhabi Telephone +971 2 496-3333 Fax +971-2-496-3300 Email nzembassy.abu.dhabi@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/united-arab-emirates Hours Mon-Wed 0900-1600, Thu 0900-1530, Fri 0900-1130 Notarial Services: By appointment only, please email to arrange Note Facebook: @nzembassyuae Twitter: @nzinuae

    See our regional advice for the Middle East

    Top of page

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Hosts Second Rural Community Funding Summit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    SHREVEPORT – This morning, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) hosted his second Rural Community Funding Summit of 2024, together with Minden Mayor Nick Cox, the Louisiana Municipal Association, the Police Jury Association of Louisiana, and LITACorp. Cassidy encouraged local officials in attendance to take advantage of his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and the opportunities it provides.
    “When I was negotiating the bipartisan infrastructure bill, I was thinking of mayors, police jurors and city council members gaining access to dollars to build roads, fix water and sewage issues and extend high-speed broadband throughout Northwest Louisiana,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This summit completes the connection between appropriating our federal tax dollars back to our state and these community leaders learning how to use this money.”
    Webster Parish alone will benefit from over $17 million in the IIJA as of last summer, including over $9.2 million to build a new overpass over Louisiana Highway 531, along with other improvements near the overpass. Improvements will also be made to the stretch of Louisiana Highway 159 between Country Club Drive and Benson Road, and to the Minden and Springhill Airports.
    Representatives from numerous federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development and the Delta Regional Authority, were present. Cassidy was thanked for his efforts by Mayor Cox.
    “Senator Cassidy’s infrastructure bill has been enormously helpful in improving our roads and upgrading our airports, and we appreciate the chance to learn more about the opportunities in his bill to improve the services we provide to our residents,” said Mayor Cox. “This is great for Minden and great for the region.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police issue please for all road users to take responsibility

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Police issue please for all road users to take responsibility

    Wednesday, 9 October 2024 – 8:52 am.

    With four deaths on Tasmanian roads last week alone, police are pleading with all road users to slow down and take responsibility on our roads.Acting Inspector Justin Lawson, who is the State Road Safety Coordinator for Tasmania Police, said that over the past decade, Tasmania has faced a tragic toll from road crashes, with more than 3,000 people being seriously injured or killed on our roads.“These numbers mean that on average, 35 Tasmanians are dying from road trauma each year.“A total of 26 people have lost their lives on Tasmanian roads this year, with factors including speed, alcohol consumption, fatigue, and distracted driving continuing to feature strongly as contributors.“Sadly, another four people have died in the past week alone,” he said.“This compares to 25 fatalities at the same time last year. In addition, a total of 223 people have been seriously injured in 2024, compared with 242 in 2023.”Acting Inspector Lawson said that inattention and high-risk driving behaviour were the most common contributors to fatal and serious crashes, along with speeding, drink/drug driving, fatigue and not wearing seatbelts.“The devastating consequences of fatal and serious motor vehicle crashes extend beyond the immediate physical injuries – they ripple through families, friends, and communities, leaving long-lasting emotional and psychological scars,” Acting Inspector Lawson said.“Each incident represents a life altered, a family heartbroken, and a community left counting the cost.“We implore drivers not to become a statistic. We all have a choice when we get behind the wheel and we call upon all Tasmanians to join us in making our roads safer.“Whether you are a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist, your choices matter and can assist in reducing the number of crashes.”“We will continue to conduct targeted and random patrols on rural roads to curb high-risk behaviours like speeding, drink driving, inattention and not wearing seatbelts, because we know these factors overwhelmingly contribute to serious and fatal crashes on our roads.“We also encourage members of the public to report dangerous driving and traffic offending to police on 131 444, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.”“You can also report dangerous driving through our website at https://www.police.tas.gov.au/services-online/dangerous-driving-report/”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Afghan National Arrested for Plotting an Election Day Terrorist Attack in the Name of ISIS

    Source: United States Attorneys General 5

    Note: View the unsealed criminal complaint here. 

    The Justice Department today announced charges against a citizen of Afghanistan residing in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for conspiring to conduct an Election Day terrorist attack in the United States on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO).

    According to a criminal complaint filed today, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, conspired and attempted to provide material support to ISIS and obtained firearms and ammunition to conduct a violent attack on U.S. soil in the name of ISIS. As part of the plot, the defendant allegedly took steps to liquidate his family’s assets, resettle members of his family overseas, acquire AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition, and commit a terrorist attack in the United States.

    “As charged, the Justice Department foiled the defendant’s plot to acquire semi-automatic weapons and commit a violent attack in the name of ISIS on U.S. soil on Election Day,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “We will continue to combat the ongoing threat that ISIS and its supporters pose to America’s national security, and we will identify, investigate, and prosecute the individuals who seek to terrorize the American people. I am deeply grateful to the public servants of the FBI, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma for their work to disrupt this attack and for the work they do every day to protect our country.”

    “This defendant, motivated by ISIS, allegedly conspired to commit a violent attack, on Election Day, here on our homeland,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “I am proud of the men and women of the FBI who uncovered and stopped the plot before anyone was harmed. Terrorism is still the FBI’s number one priority, and we will use every resource to protect the American people.”

    “Thanks to the relentless efforts of the FBI, National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, and federal prosecutors in my office, the alleged plan to commit an attack on Election Day was disrupted and Mr. Tawhedi was arrested,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “Fighting terrorism remains the top priority of the Justice Department. We will continue to pursue, disrupt, and hold accountable those who plot to commit acts of terrorism against our country and our people.”

    According to the criminal complaint, as part of the investigation into Tawhedi, the FBI searched Tawhedi’s phone and obtained communications between Tawhedi and a person who facilitated recruitment, training, and indoctrination of persons who expressed interest in terrorist activity and who Tawhedi understood to be affiliated with ISIS. Tawhedi was also seen in a video recorded on July 20 reading to two children text that describes the rewards a martyr receives in the afterlife. Tawhedi also allegedly accessed, viewed, and saved ISIS propaganda on his iCloud and Google account, participated in pro-ISIS Telegram groups, and contributed to a charity which fronts for and funnels money to ISIS.

    The complaint alleges that while liquidating their family’s assets prior to the attack, Tawhedi and his co-conspirator, who is a juvenile, advertised the sale of the family’s personal property on Facebook. At the FBI’s direction, a confidential human source responded to inquire if a computer was still for sale. The FBI source noted that he needed the computer for a new gun business he was starting, which ultimately led Tawhedi and the juvenile to meet with the source and other FBI assets at a rural location to test firearms. Tawhedi expressed interest in purchasing two AK-47 assault rifles, magazines, and ammunition from the source.

    According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 7, Tawhedi and the juvenile met with the FBI assets at a rural location in the Western District of Oklahoma and purchased, received, and took possession of two AK-47 assault rifles, ten magazines, and 500 rounds of ammunition. Upon receipt of the rifles and ammunition, Tawhedi and the juvenile were arrested.

    In his seized communications, Tawhedi allegedly indicated that his attack was planned for Election Day, and in a post-arrest interview, Tawhedi allegedly confirmed the attack was planned for Election Day targeting large gatherings of people, during which he and the juvenile were expected to die as martyrs.

    Tawhedi was charged with conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, and receiving a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years, if convicted.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, with valuable assistance from the Oklahoma City Police Department and the Moore, Oklahoma Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry, Matt Dillon, and Mark Stoneman for the Western District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorneys George C. Kraehe and Everett McMillian of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update – search following serious crash, SH2, Waioeka

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Senior Sergeant Richard Miller, Acting Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander

    Police are continuing to monitor river conditions after the serious crash in Waioeka on Friday that has left one person unaccounted for.

    About 10.20am on 4 October, emergency services were alerted that a single vehicle had gone down a bank and into the Waioweka River, about 2.5km south of the Tauranga Bridge, on State Highway 2.

    Search and rescue teams, including a boat, helicopter and Coastguard jet skis continued sweeps of the river and riverbank on Friday. Unfortunately, the person and vehicle were unable to be located.

    Since that time, conditions on the river have remained dangerous; rain in the headwaters of the Opato and Waioweka has kept the river levels high, making it unsafe to enter the river.

    A jet boat has continued to make sweeps of the river each morning and afternoon, monitoring river flow, depth and clarity of the water.

    Police Search and Rescue and the Police National Dive Squad continue to assess all information available and will deploy as soon as conditions permit.

    Police and rescue agencies remain committed to returning their loved one to whānau as soon as it is possible.

    We urge people who might be considering undertaking their own search activity in the river to please refrain from doing so given the risks posed by the conditions.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic violence – Yarrawonga

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have arrested a 49-year-old man in connection with a serious assault that occurred on 1 October 2024, following a proactive and coordinated operation by the Serious Crime Squad and Dog Operations Unit.

    The incident, which took place in the Parap area, involved a domestic assault in which the victim, a woman in her 40s, sustained head lacerations and a punctured lung, before a witness intervened and the man ran from the area. Shortly after, a second witness found the injured woman and called an ambulance.

    Strike Force Lyra members and Serious Crime Detectives have been actively investigating the case and following all leads to locate the offender, who had been evading police. Yesterday, officers received information about the man’s whereabouts near bushland in Yarrawonga. In response, Patrol Dog Daly and his handler were deployed to the area.

    Patrol Dog Daly successfully tracked and located the suspect, who attempted to flee through thick bushland before surrendering without incident when confronted by the dog and handler team. The man was subsequently taken into custody.

    He has since been charged with unlawfully causing serious harm, engaging in conduct that contravenes a Domestic Violence Order, and going armed in public.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Andrew Kren from the Serious Crime Squad commended the swift response by the Dog Operations Unit and the assistance provided by the community. “This is a prime example of how proactive policing and collaboration between units can quickly resolve serious incidents, ensuring the safety of our community,” he said.

    The man has been remanded and is scheduled to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    Police are continuing to investigate the matter and are calling for any further witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Charges – Murder – Malak

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have charged a 34-year-old man in relation to a death in Malak on Monday.

    Detectives from Major Crime charged him last night and he was further remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –